Latest news with #Ravan
India.com
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
India's biggest flop film had Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan in lead roles, Aishwarya never worked with Abhishek again, the film was…
India's biggest flop film had Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan in lead roles, Aishwarya never worked with Abhishek again, the film was… This film of a real life couple turned out to be a huge flop. Couldnt even recover its budget. Find the name inside. By Simran Keswani Advertisement In the fleeting world of cinema. There is nothing predictable. Sometimes, even the best cast, massively productive, and the couple who are widely hailed for their off-screen work can also fall flat at the box office. With this unpredictable industry where the fate of the film changes every Friday, it's impossible to figure out the building blocks of a blockbuster. One such tale is of a film that had high expectations with its romantic cast that's grounded in reality. However, what happened at the box office was something nobody saw coming. Advertisement === The film we are talking about is none other than Raavan. Mani Ratnam's film featured the real-life couple- Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan together. Therefore, its failure just didn't make sense to the movie critics and filmmakers. With the blend of deep emotions and drama. This film offered everything from the direction of the most respected filmmaker, a powerful star cast of real real-life couple to music by Oscar-winner A.R. Rahman, and lyrics by the legendary Gulzar, but still, the movie couldn't make a mark at the box office. Advertisement === However, Ravan wasn't the film where Abhishek and Aishwarya starred together. Before this, the duo came in films like Guru, Sarkar Raj, Dhai Akshar Prem Ke, and Kuch Naa Kaho. Their on-screen bond was widely hailed, and after tying the knot in 2007, which was the most-talked-about wedding of Bollywood, fans expected to see more of their magic on screen. The film's plot revolved around the crux of Ramayana, but with a modern twist, and it emphasises Ravana's perspective. Made on a budget of Rs. 55 crores, the film couldn't even cover its cost and collected only Rs. 39.37 crores in India and Rs. 49.57 crores worldwide. The movie's failure also marked the end of Abhishek and Aishwarya's on-screen collaborations to date. After Raavan, the couple never appeared in a film together again. Interestingly, in this film, Abhishek wasn't even the classic hero; he portrayed the role of an antagonist, which might've also challenged viewer expectations. Abhishek and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan are shining in their careers today. Aishwarya was last seen at the Cannes Film Festival 2025 with her daughter Aaradhya. Abhishek will be seen in Housefull 5.
Hindustan Times
03-06-2025
- General
- Hindustan Times
BJP's Pankaja Munde puts cryptic message on father's death anniversary
Maharashtra environment minister and BJP leader Pankaja Munde on Tuesday said she was ready to face problems if people are with her, while referring to the exile of Pandavas and noting that righteous people inevitably experience hardships in their lives. She also mentioned demon king Ravan in her speech laced with political undertones while addressing a gathering at Gopinathgad which houses the memorial of her father and BJP stalwart late Gopinath Munde on his death anniversary. Another highlight of the occasion was the first public appearance of Nationalist Congress Party leader and Pankaja's embattled cousin Dhananjay Munde after months of political slugfest. Dhananjay was forced to resign as a cabinet minister in March amid a huge political firestorm over his links with Walmik Karad, an accused in the Beed sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh murder case. "Righteous people face problems. Kauravas and Ravan didn't face vanvas (exile) but Pandav had to go into exile. I am ready to face problems if people are with me," Pankaja said. Reflecting on her journey since the passing of her father, Pankaja said, "I have been speaking from this dais for the past 11 years. When Gopinath Munde passed away, it felt like a lightning strike on our lives". Drawing an analogy from the Mahabharata, she said, "Draupadi called out to everyone when she was in trouble, but she didn't call Lord Krishna initially. It was only when she called him that he came to her aid. Even God doesn't give us anything unless we ask for it." Pankaja asserted that if her father were alive today, he would have held a significant post in the country. "Gopinathji lives on, not just in our family, but in the hearts of people because of the work he did. He never wished ill for anyone. I see him today in his followers," the BJP MLC said, adding that she always maintained strong and respectful relationships. Before her address, Pankaja paid floral tributes at her father's memorial. She was accompanied by her sister, former MP Pritam Munde, and MLA Dhananjay Munde. Dhananjay didn't deliver a speech on the occasion.
Time of India
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
'Terrorism will sink Pakistan one day,' said Yogi Adityanath at the inauguration of the Hanuman Katha Mandap
Congratulations! You have successfully cast your vote Login to view result AYODHYA: Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday launched a fierce attack on Pakistan, warning that terrorism will sink Pakistan one day. Speaking in Ayodhya after offering prayers at the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Temple and inaugurating the 'Shri Hanumat Katha Mandapam' at Shri Hanuman Garhi condemned Pakistan for sheltering terrorists and asserted that New India does not provoke but firmly retaliates when provoked."This is New India. Naya Bharat kisi ko chhedta nahi hai, lekin koi chhedta hai toh usko chhoddta bhi nahi hai. Lord Hanuman had also said the same. When he appeared before Ravan, Ravan asked him that why did he kill his son? He said that he did not kill him (Akshayakumara), but only retaliated and he (Akshayakumara) died because he did not have any strength," the chief minister said, drawing parallels with modern security India's counter-terror operations, Adityanath said that the Indian Armed Forces did not attack Pakistan unprovoked, but responded decisively after the country supported attacks targeting innocent Indian citizens based on their religion."Indian Armed Forces didn't attack Pakistan. It attacked our innocent people and shot them dead after asking about their retaliation, more than 124 terrorists were killed in the Indian military action. So, it is not India's mistake. It is the mistake of those people of India who are sitting in Pakistan and harbouring terrorists and nurturing terrorism. I can confidently say that terrorism will sink Pakistan one day," he out at Pakistan, the Uttar Pradesh CM said, "Pakistan's days are has lived enough for 75 years. Now the time has come. It is facing punishment due to its own actions..."During his visit to Ayodhya, Adityanath performed rituals at the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Temple and later inaugurated the 'Shri Hanumat Katha Mandapam' at Hanuman Garhi, a prominent temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
Time of India
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Ravan was not just a villain, says Puneet Issar on his role in Ishwar
Known for his iconic portrayals of mythological characters on stage and screen, actor Puneet Issar is once again set to don the crown of Lankadhipati Ravan—but this time, in an entirely new light. The veteran actor will headline the upcoming theatrical production Ishwar, written and directed by playwright Atul Satya Koushik , In a candid conversation with Bombay Times, Issar opens up about the play, his collaboration with the director, and why Ishwar is a deeply layered exploration of one of mythology's most misunderstood figures. 'Not Just the Antagonist' 'Ishwar is not your typical retelling of the Ramayana,' says the actor. 'It explores the human side of Ravan, his dilemmas, emotional battles, and psychological depth. The rage, the pain, the mind of an antagonist, it's all here, but seen through a humane lens. This Ravan is not just the villain; he's a man driven by belief, conflict, and emotion.' Puneet, who previously worked with Atul on Ravan Ki Ramayan in 2015, notes the stark contrast between the two productions. 'If Ravan Ki Ramayan was about Ravan justifying his actions through fiery monologues and confrontations, Ishwar is North Pole to that South Pole,' he explains. 'This play is far more introspective. It digs deep into Ravan's relationships with his wife, his sister, his son, even Sita, and the emotional nuances in each of those dynamics.' 'Atul Satya Koushik has an incredible ability to bring out the humanity in every character' Issar is full of praise for Atul Satya Koushik, whose writing he calls 'top class' and 'A-grade.' 'He has an incredible ability to bring out the humanity in every character, especially the women,' says Puneet. 'In Ishwar, female characters are central—whether it's Ravan's wife Mandodari, his sister Shurpanakha, or his daughter-in-law. The king-queen, father-son, and husband-wife dynamics are etched out with such detail.' He continues, 'Every character in this play has a beginning, middle, and end. Nothing is there just for the sake of it. The dialogue, the structure—everything has been written with intention. That's what makes this play stand out.' 'This one's special' Reflecting on his nearly decade-long gap since Ravan Ki Ramayan, Puneet notes how much has changed. 'It's been 10 years, and we've all grown—personally and creatively. Working with Atul again feels like picking up an evolved conversation, and this time, it's deeper, more philosophical.' As audiences prepare to witness this multi-dimensional portrayal of Ravan, Puneet leaves them with a thought: 'Villains are often the most emotionally complex characters. And sometimes, understanding them brings us closer to understanding ourselves.' The cast includes well-known names like Dipannita Sharma, Himanshu Soni, and Amit Pachori, alongside Puneet Issar. The play is described as a bold reimagining of the Ramayana, examining Ravan's ambition, personal dharma, and moral ambiguity. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
Business Recorder
07-05-2025
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Ravan in saffron
In every piece that I wrote about our Eastern neighbour, the persons under the knife of dissection is Narendra Modi and his cohorts, its establishment and its agencies, but never the ordinary peace loving Indian and every comment about their collective evil nature is never directed towards the reverend religion of Hinduism. It is about the misrepresentation of the noble religious thought carried out by Modi that I carry this crusade in writing. If Gandhi was a reincarnation of the good Rama; Modi is the worst format of the reincarnation of evil, Ravan. Ravana (Ravan) in Hindu mythology is the mythical multiheaded demonic king of Lanka, who had nursed for long, coveting lord Rama's wife, the Sati Savitri (the pure). He is cursed in Hinduism, having kidnapped Sita. That despite being in his custody he couldn't enforce marriage, because of a spell of bad omen cast upon him, that should he touch a woman, against her will, he would die immediately- instantaneously. Fear of death prevented the despoiling of pure Sita. Ravana or Ravan for short represents the essence of evil and cowardice. Modi as an ardent follower of Ravan has both these traits in abundance. Saffron is generally recognised as a colour of Hinduism. Since it is associated with Agni (fire) — the Sun, it is considered sacred and is believed to convey purity, sacrifice, and renunciation. Ascetics, Saints and Sadhus traditionally wear saffron colour to indicate detachment from worldly pursuits of materialism and as a mark of devotion to the power of spirituality. The allurements of the world are rejected and the willingness to sacrifice for the good of others are hallmark indicators of the colour of saffron in Hinduism more, and to a lesser extent in Jainism and Buddhism. Saffron is a colour of courage. Dominated by Hinduism, even in sstrology, saffron colour is considered to be an agent of enhancing institution, positive energy and for jettisoning negative influences. Saffron in short is the colour of Hindu Dharma, a colour of support for purity, sanctity and for enlightenment to prevail. Now, with these positive qualities associated with the colour, how come Modi dares to adorn saffron kurtas (long shirts). Why should the Hindus of India permit Narendra Modi (read progeny of Ravan) to wear saffron colour clothing since everything he says, does or represents is repugnant to the religious beauty of the colour saffron? This colour suits Rama, but not Ravans. Indians should impose a ban upon the use of saffron colour by Modi, his followers and the militant RSS since their lives completely violate the nobility associated with the colour. Stripped of the option to wear saffron colour, Modi must be advised by first Amit Shah and the rest of the cabinet to start wearing the evil black hue shade to truly represent cunningness and inhumane heart and soul. Modi must apologise for abusing the saffron colour. A close look at his background gives insights to the fact that his evil side has been on the nurture since his teenage years. At age 17 years, he enrolled himself as an active member of the notorious RSS, the militant Wing of Jan Sangh or the later BJP. He joined BJP in 1987. In 1990, he galvanised through promotion of hatred towards Muslims and other minorities BJP's success in Gujarat. He won his first election in 2002. During the communal riots, in Godhra, he remained unmoved to the massacre and genocide unleashed upon the innocent Muslim men, women, and children. Some women in a family were unburdened of their carriage on the streets with swords struck into their wombs. He indulged later too in wholesale deaths of Muslims in the state of Gujarat through 'fake encounters'. In June 2013, he was chosen to lead BJP campaign of 2014 elections. On the frenzy of revivalism of Hindutva he has been winning elections and hasn't turned back to date. Shashi Tahroor, the lone voice of sanity amongst Indian politicians, quotes in his book, 'The Struggle for India's Soul', George Orwell's postulation that 'every nationalist is haunted by the belief that the past can be altered. He spends part of his time in a fantasy world in which things happen as they should — in which for example the Spanish Armada was a great success not to speak about, or the Russian Revolution was crushed in 1918. And he will transfer fragments of this world to the history books whenever possible…'; and Tahroor in his words continues: 'Nearly eight decades after he wrote these words, Orwell's prescience has been borne out in India, where the rewriting of the past in the service of nationalism (Hindutva— my insertion) is well advanced. The BJP under Modi has devoted itself to reinventing history in which the villains are all Muslims, one of particular obsessions of the BJP in this respect is to promote the notion of an ineluctable Hindu-Muslim divide as a key enabler of the idea of Hindu nationalism '(read Hindutva). Nehru had once said that if 'Hindu rashtra' was inspired by the Jan Sanghis, it would reduce India to a 'Hindu Pakistan '. That is now the agenda of Modi and BJP. Poor Aurangzeb Alamgir who has been lying in peace since 1707 AD in Aurangabad is being woken up, because he has been illegally resting in some imagined historical Hindu temple site. Ridiculous and shameful. I am waiting to see upon which temple is the foundation of the Taj Mahal resting!! Modi is averse to the Muslim names of the cities of Ahmedabad, Aligarh, Hyderabad, and so many of them. Modi's nationalism includes ban on sale of cows for slaughter, reversal of the special status of the Indian occupied Kashmir; in October 2023 he announced construction of the new Ram Mandir and personally presided in January 2024 over the 'Prana pratishtha' commemoration ceremony and to top it all, always turned a blind eye to the genocidal killings of the minorities particularly Muslims. Modi is 75 years old and is in the third term in the office of the Prime minister. He has already harmed enough the Indian polity and its social fabric built over thousands of years, through his venom of thought. He is likely to make it to a fourth term if the ordinary Indian continues to be swayed by his violent philosophy of Hindutva. Reading his profile on some official site, I chuckled, where it said his life is a journey of courage, compassion, and constant hard work. The cowardice inherently present cannot be masked. A false sense of adventurism is no act of courage. And for a man upon whose hands is the blood of innocent men, women and children, the use of compassion as his trait is a Greek tragedy. The man doesn't even know the word, let alone its characteristics. During WW II, while Hitler plundered and occupied Austria, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, etc., the Prime Minister of the UK, Neville Chamberlain, warned, yet nobody took it seriously as appeasement was the world's attitude towards Hitler. Modi, the war mongerer, is not being taken seriously but the difference is that Pakistan is not Austria or Hungary of the 1940s. The battle ready armed forces will repel any foolish adventurism by Modi. That's a given. India, nay, Modi in particular is licking his wounds over the complete failure of the false flag operation, during which he took away lives of 26 innocent domestic tourists; this happens in a state where the number of law enforcement agencies exceeds the population. Terrorists appear from nowhere, mercilessly they kill, and walk away lazily. What? This itself is a challenge to the basic intelligence of the world community. If Modi and India were sincere, they would not refuse for an impartial and independent enquiry into the incident. Indians are demanding it, even if the rest of the world isn't. The self-ignited and on fire anchors of the blazing TV channels are now recognising that it indeed was a failed false flag operation. It is reported that Lt. General DS Rana, the Director General of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) has been sent to Andaman Islands (Kaala Pani)!? Wow! A swift action expressing the admission of guilt. Of course, the wrong man has been banished! Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
